Qualifications:
This position performs preventative/corrective maintenance on vital drinking water & wastewater equipment with an emphasis on mechanical duties. This is a 24 hour a day, 365 days a year operation, and personnel will be subject to working overtime and on call, including nights, holidays, and weekends.
- High school diploma or GED equivalent.
- Valid driver's license with a good driving record.
- Experience in wastewater treatment operations, farming, or heavy equipment operation is highly desirable.
- Expected to obtain FL Wastewater Certification / License within 24 months of employment.
Responsibilities:
JOB SUMMARY:
The wastewater sprayfield and hay operator is responsible for the daily operation, maintenance, and monitoring of a wastewater treatment system and its associated 240 acre sprayfield. This includes managing the irrigation of treated wastewater, cultivating and harvesting hay on the sprayfield, and ensuring all operations meet local, state, and federal environmental permit requirements.
SPRAYFIELD AND HAY OPERATION:
- Operate irrigation equipment to spray treated effluent onto the hayfields according to a strict schedule that prevents runoff and protects groundwater.
- Perform regular groundskeeping and maintenance of the sprayfield, including mowing, weed control, and general upkeep.
- Use tractors and other agricultural equipment to cut, rake, and bale hay according to optimal harvest schedules.
- Repair and maintain agricultural equipment, irrigation systems, and fences.
WASTEWATER TREATMENT AND MONITORING:
- Operate and maintain all components of the wastewater treatment system, including pumps, valves, and control panels.
- Monitor system gauges, meters, and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems to ensure proper function and identify operational problems.
- Perform routine sampling and conduct basic laboratory tests (e.g., pH, dissolved oxygen) to ensure the treated effluent meets quality standards before irrigation.
- Adjust chemical feed rates and make process control decisions based on lab data and system observations.
COMPLIANCE AND RECORD KEEPING:
- Maintain accurate and detailed logs of all operational data, including sprayfield activities, chemical inventories, and meter readings.
- Ensure full compliance with all FDEP permit conditions, including environmental protection agency (EPA) standards.
- Document and report any system malfunctions, environmental concerns, or permit violations to a supervisor.
GENERAL MAINTENANCE AND SAFETY:
- Conduct routine inspections and preventive maintenance on all mechanical and electrical plant equipment.
- Respond to after-hours alarms and emergency callouts.
- Adhere to all safety protocols and use required personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling chemicals or operating machinery.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILL, AND ABILITIES:
- Knowledge: Understand the principles of wastewater treatment and agricultural practices, including hay production.
- Mechanical skills: Strong aptitude for equipment troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair, covering both wastewater plant and farm equipment.
- Technical skills: Ability to interpret data from SCADA systems, gauges, and lab tests to make operational decisions.
- Physical demands: Ability to perform heavy manual labor, work in all weather conditions, and operate heavy equipment.
- Performs other duties as required and assigned.